The U.S. spends more on healthcare than peer nations while continuing to report lower life expectancy, higher avoidable death rates and fewer primary care physicians per capita, according to a Commonwealth Fund report published May 28.
The report, “U.S. Health Care from a Global Perspective, 2026: Expanded Edition,” compares the U.S. with 19 other Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries across insurance coverage and access to care, affordability, care delivery and equity of outcomes.
Countries included in the analysis were Australia, Canada, Chile, Denmark, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and the United Kingdom. Findings were based on OECD health statistics compiled between January and February 2026.
Seven findings:
1. Healthcare accounted for 18% of U.S. gross domestic product, nearly double the OECD average.
2. The U.S. spent more on healthcare per person than any other country studied — 1.5 times more than Switzerland, the next-highest-spending country, and 10 times more than Mexico, the lowest-spending country. Per capita healthcare spending in the U.S. exceeded $10,500.
3. U.S. life expectancy was 79 years, below the OECD average and nearly five years shorter than life expectancy in Japan, Spain and Switzerland.
4. The U.S. had the second-highest rate of avoidable deaths among countries studied, behind Mexico. Researchers said avoidable mortality rates remain above prepandemic levels.
5. About 27 million Americans, or roughly 8% of the population, lacked health insurance coverage. Uninsured rates were higher among Hispanic, Black, American Indian and Alaska Native populations, lower-income Americans and residents of states that have not expanded Medicaid.
6. Patients in the U.S. were the most likely among countries studied to forgo needed care because of costs. More than 26% of Americans reported skipping medical tests, treatment or follow-up care due to affordability concerns.
7. The U.S. had the fewest primary care physicians per capita among countries analyzed and one of the lowest rates of physician graduates. The report linked workforce strain to factors including high medical school tuition costs, limited residency positions, underinvestment in primary care and physician burnout.
8. Americans spent an average of $462 annually out of pocket on pharmaceuticals and other medical nondurable goods, compared with $92 in France. The OECD average was $244.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.